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Solar Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Citadel Roofing and Solar

Solar Installers

Truckee, CA · On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Citadel Roofing and Solar is looking for Solar Installers! We are looking for hard-working and EXPERIENCED Solar Installers that take pride in their trade. We have a project that will be starting ...

LA Solar Group Inc

Solar Installer

Sun Valley, CA · On-site

$21.50 - $28.25/hr

In the midst of the solar industry's challenges, LA Solar Group, a recognized Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing Solar Company for 8 consecutive years, stands tall. We continue to lead with innovative ...

Simply Solar

Solar Roof Lead (South Bay)

San Jose, CA · On-site

$24.25 - $32.25/hr

When you join the Simply Solar team, you join an amazing culture of people who care deeply about the work they do. You join an organization committed to empowering people to make positive, measurable ...

Swift Solar

Future Opportunities at Swift Solar

San Carlos, CA · On-site

$62.50 - $86/hr

Process Engineers: Driving the development and scale-up of thin-film processes. * R&D Scientists: Pioneering advances in the field of perovskite solar PV technology. * Software Engineers: Developing ...

K2 Space

Senior Solar Process Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$140K - $175K/yr

Getting the process engineering right is not a support function here; it is on the critical path. You will develop, qualify, and optimize manufacturing processes for K2's solar array systems. The ...

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All JobsSolar Engineer JobsSolar Engineer Jobs in California

Solar Engineer information

See California salary details

$48.4K

$101.6K

$160.4K

How much do solar engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for solar engineer in California is $101,606.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,200.00 and $139,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a solar engineer?

Solar engineers plan, design, and execute solar energy projects, from the installation of new solar energy panels on a home to the building of a new solar power plant. Typically, one engineer is required for solar panel installation on a single rooftop. Larger projects, such as new power plants or large panel installations, need multiple solar engineers to handle the logistics. As a solar engineer, you visit the installation site and meet with customers to discuss and resolve any budgetary, feasibility, and design issues. Before any construction begins, you work with designers and engineers to determine the appropriate arrangement of solar panels to maximize efficiency. With the plan in place, you coordinate the teams that are working on the project and procure materials and equipment, create contracts with electrical and building contractors, and communicate with OEM companies to ensure that the parts for the facility are made to the proper specifications. You provide timely written and verbal updates throughout the construction process to the clients. Once the project is complete, you work with the client or the facility’s managers and maintenance personnel to ensure that the site is in good working order and all designs and specifications are available for continued site maintenance.

What does a solar engineer do?

A Solar Engineer designs, develops, and oversees the installation and maintenance of solar energy systems, such as solar panels and photovoltaic cells. They work to optimize the efficiency and reliability of these systems for residential, commercial, or industrial use. Solar Engineers also assess project sites, perform technical analyses, and ensure compliance with regulations and safety standards. Their work helps advance the adoption of renewable energy and reduce environmental impact.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a solar engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Solar Engineer, you need a solid background in electrical or mechanical engineering, with expertise in solar energy systems and a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with PV system design software (like PVsyst), CAD tools, and industry certifications such as NABCEP are highly valuable. Strong problem-solving abilities, project management skills, and effective communication set outstanding professionals apart. These competencies ensure safe, efficient, and innovative solar solutions that meet both technical and client requirements in a rapidly growing industry.

What are some common challenges solar engineers face when working on large-scale solar projects?

Solar Engineers working on large-scale projects often encounter challenges such as coordinating with multiple stakeholders, managing project timelines, and addressing site-specific constraints like land availability or local weather conditions. Ensuring regulatory compliance and grid connectivity can also be complex due to varying regional requirements. Effective communication and adaptability are essential, as engineers frequently collaborate with construction teams, suppliers, and local authorities to keep projects on track.

What is the difference between Solar Engineer vs Solar Technician?

AspectSolar EngineerSolar Technician
CredentialsBachelor's degree in engineering or related field; certifications like NABCEP (optional)High school diploma or technical training; NABCEP certification preferred
Work EnvironmentDesign, planning, project management, and system analysisInstallation, maintenance, troubleshooting on-site
Employer & Industry UsageEngineering firms, solar companies, project developersInstallation companies, maintenance service providers

Solar Engineers focus on designing and planning solar power systems, ensuring optimal performance and compliance. Solar Technicians handle the hands-on installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of solar panels. Both roles are essential in the solar industry but differ in responsibilities and required qualifications.

Are solar engineers in demand?

Solar engineers are in high demand due to the growth of renewable energy projects and increasing investments in solar power infrastructure. They typically require technical skills in system design, installation, and maintenance, and job opportunities are expected to expand as the industry continues to grow globally.
More about Solar Engineer jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Solar Engineer jobs in California?

The most popular types of Solar Engineer jobs in California are:

What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in California?

For Solar Engineer jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Solar Engineer jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Solar Engineer jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Solar Engineer jobs?

Cities in California with the most Solar Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Solar Engineer jobs in CA?

For Solar Engineer jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Solar Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Solar Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 92% In-person, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $101,606 per year, or $48.8 per hour.

Solar Installers

Citadel Roofing and Solar

Truckee, CA • On-site

$25 - $40/hr

Temporary

Re-posted 3 days ago

Job description

Citadel Roofing and Solar is looking for Solar Installers! We are looking for hard-working and EXPERIENCED Solar Installers that take pride in their trade. We have a project that will be starting around May 2025. Interested? Great! Keep reading.

Responsibilities:

· Pull inventory for each job

· Pre-assemble job material

· Layout and assembly of solar modules / array and mounting hardware

· Mechanical/structural mounting of racking, modules and electrical equipment

· Communicate and document job completion

· Make sure the jobsite is cleaned up nightly and at the end of the project

· Additional duties required as needed

Qualifications:

· 1 year of roofing and/or solar installation or general construction required

· Previous solar experience preferred

· Must be able to lift 50+ pounds

· Ability to work in extreme environments (sun, cold, crawl spaces, etc)

· Must be willing and able to climb ladders, stairs, work on roof tops and able to work on your feet for long periods of time. Must be comfortable with heights.

· Must be reliable

· Excellent written and verbal communication skills required

· Excellent customer service skills required

If you are still interested and serious about coming to work for Citadel, please send your resume to jobs@citadelrs.com or fax to 707-446-5501.

This job is a Section 3 eligible job opportunity. We encourage applications from individuals that are low income and/or live in Public Housing and/or receive a Section 8 voucher.

Company Description

With more than 30 years of experience the team at Citadel Roofing and Solar has installed roofs and solar systems up and down Northern California. While working for Major Residential Home Builders, Multifamily Apartment and Condominium Builders and Custom Home Builders, Citadel Roofing and Solar has earned the respect of the industry we serves. We are proud of our great reputation and look forward to working with you on your next project.